The Palomeras de Fornacal highlights that a short canyon can be every bit as interesting as other longer canyons in the area. It is a spectacular gorge chiselled from conglomerate rock and obviously well weathered. It’s at its best after rain and is considered to be one of the essential routes in the eastern region of the Sierra de Guara.
The route requires chimney climbing in parts and is both attractive and enjoyable along the whole of the route. In addition, it can easily be combined with other descents nearby.
It can be enjoyed throughout the whole of the year but is best after rain as the pools often become stagnant in dry periods due to the minimal flow of water.
Technical information
Approach: the access to the start of the canyon is almost immediate, although take care as the terrain is loose underfoot and can be tricky. Leave the car on the small, levelled area between the 26 and 27km mark on the road from Colungo to Arcusa, at the bridge with the sign for “Barranco de la Palomera.” Nearest village: Colungo, on the way Asque.
Descent: 1h:15min KM: 300m
Return: 30 minutes; take the steep path that leads up to the road. Follow the road towards Colungo until reaching the bridge where the cars were left.
Escape routes: None. It is narrow and deep with a spectacular stretch of “oscuros” that has no escape or shelter.
Car combination n/a
Difficulty level: Low to medium level throughout the year.
Minimum equipment requirements:
- Full wetsuit with neoprene socks in during cold periods.
- Neoprene trousers and bib in the summer.
- Helmet
- Harness
- Double anchor lanyard
- Ropes
- Equipment for abseiling (figure-of-eight descender)
- 2 ropes of at least 10m in length.
Points of interest
- Colungo
Photo gallery
